Soooo...shame on me! I've been so busy with everything that I haven't posted for the last couple days. However, I have a lot to share.
First off, I want to say how grateful I am that I even made it through last week alive! Last week was probably one of the most stressful weeks I've had this semester. I had to rely a lot on the Lord. For starters, I did everything I could to put the Lord first. Even though I may not have seemed to have enough time, I still read my scriptures and prayed daily, and I went to the temple once that week. It wasn't easy to try to make time for those things, but those are the most important things I do each day so it is necessary that I make the time to do those things. I know that it is because I put the spiritual things first (and worked hard on studying as well) that the the Lord helped me through the week. He will always bless you if you are striving to do what is right.
On Sunday we had the opportunity to go to the Christmas devotional. I absolutely loved it! The set up was beautiful and the talks made me cryyyyy. I am so blessed to be a member of this wonderful church.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Day 52
What a daaaay! Even though I've been quite stressed out this week, today was an amazing day. I think, actually I know, that when I put spiritual things first, everything else falls into place...no matter how difficult things may seem.
This morning I woke up early and went swimming with my friend Becca. After we got back I had some extra time before class to read my scriptures. What is so interesting is that usually I'm too tired to read my scriptures so I wait until later to read them, but today I felt that I really needed to read them in the morning. My scripture study truly set the mood for the entire day. I was reading about Ammon and King Lamoni and I was just so impressed. I could feel the spirit so strongly as I read those verses...and I didn't even fall asleep! Haha.
Then later I decided to go to the temple. (Even though I have a paper due tomorrow, well today now, for Japanese literature that is worth a whole lot of our final grade....which I didn't start before going.) I was debating whether it was the right thing to do, but eventually I decided that the temple would be a worthwhile break from all the stresses and studying. I could not have asked for a more peaceful experience than what I had in the temple. After going to the temple I felt completely rejuvenated. :)
The world is a great place :)
Monday, November 26, 2012
Day 51
From here my posts are no longer for the Book of Mormon project....they're just for funsies. :)
I was reading in Alma 15 today. A verse that stuck out to me was Alma 15:16. It reads:
"And it came to pass that Alma and Amulek, Amulek having forsaken all his gold, and silver, and his precious things, which were in the land of Ammonihah, for the word of God, he being rejected by those who were once his friends and also by his father and his kindred;"
Amulek gave up so much when he joined the church. He left his gold, silver, and all the things that were important to him because he truly believed in the word of God. Also, he lost his friends and family after joining the church. It would break my heart if my own father rejected me because of my choice to be a part of the Church. I am so impressed with the great faith and courage Amulek had. He also had an incredible testimony.
I love that the Book of Mormon is so easy to relate to. I've read the Book of Mormon before, but it took me until recently to notice all the applications the stories can have in my life. Many of the challenges that the Book of Mormon people went through are directly relatable to our experiences today. Take Amulek's story for example. There are many people currently living in the world who have joined the church regardless of the sacrifices they must make for it. This makes me so much more grateful to have been born into a wonderful family (who always supports me) and to have been taught correct principles from the time I was a child.
Knowing that the hard things I'm going through have been experienced by people before me really helps me to take courage in whatever I'm doing. I recognize that the Lord will always be there to help as well. We definitely couldn't do it alone. Also, I know that the Book of Mormon can help me in anything I'm facing...and that is such an incredible thing to know.
I was reading in Alma 15 today. A verse that stuck out to me was Alma 15:16. It reads:
"And it came to pass that Alma and Amulek, Amulek having forsaken all his gold, and silver, and his precious things, which were in the land of Ammonihah, for the word of God, he being rejected by those who were once his friends and also by his father and his kindred;"
Amulek gave up so much when he joined the church. He left his gold, silver, and all the things that were important to him because he truly believed in the word of God. Also, he lost his friends and family after joining the church. It would break my heart if my own father rejected me because of my choice to be a part of the Church. I am so impressed with the great faith and courage Amulek had. He also had an incredible testimony.
I love that the Book of Mormon is so easy to relate to. I've read the Book of Mormon before, but it took me until recently to notice all the applications the stories can have in my life. Many of the challenges that the Book of Mormon people went through are directly relatable to our experiences today. Take Amulek's story for example. There are many people currently living in the world who have joined the church regardless of the sacrifices they must make for it. This makes me so much more grateful to have been born into a wonderful family (who always supports me) and to have been taught correct principles from the time I was a child.
Knowing that the hard things I'm going through have been experienced by people before me really helps me to take courage in whatever I'm doing. I recognize that the Lord will always be there to help as well. We definitely couldn't do it alone. Also, I know that the Book of Mormon can help me in anything I'm facing...and that is such an incredible thing to know.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Finding Gratitude in the Book of Mormon
I know I was supposed to post about what I found on gratitude when I found it, but I decided to share it all in one post at the end :)
I began my study by looking for the words thanks, thanksgiving, and gratitude. I wanted to search for praise too, but I decided to focus on thanks specifically. What I found most interesting is that the word gratitude isn't used at all in the entire Book of Mormon! Luckily there are references to thanks and thanksgiving :) This has really opened my eyes to the importance of expressing gratitude in all things and for all people.
THANKS (used 24 times in the first half of the Book of Mormon)
According to the Webster's 1828 dictionary the definition of thanks is...
"n. Expression of gratitude; an acknowledgment made to express a sense of favor or kindness received. Gratitude is the feeling or sentiment excited by kindness; thanks are the expression of that sentiment."
1 Nephi 2:
Lehi builds and altar and gives thanks to the Lord after leaving Jerusalem and settling in the wilderness. I found this really impressive because Lehi and his family had literally just left all their belongings behind to travel to a place they'd never been to and still managed to give thanks. That is so awesome. It makes me realize that even in times of trial there is still so much to thank our Heavenly Father for.
1 Nephi 5:
Lehi and his family give thanks unto God for preserving his sons and helping them obtain the brass plates from King Laban. Whenever good things happen to us we should give thanks to God. It is important to recognize that they did not only credit themselves for their success, but God. Without God's help, the sons of Lehi probably would not have been able to obtain the brass plates from Laban.
1 Nephi 7:
Lehi and Ishmael's family give thanks to God after He (God) forgives Laman and the others who helped in binding up Nephi. Often we give thanks for temporal things that we are given, but how often to we thank the Lord for forgiving us of our sins. That is one of the most important things that God can do because it concerns our eternal salvation. I need to work on explicitly expressing my gratitude towards the Lord for forgiving me of my sins.
1 Nephi 16:
Nephi and his family give thanks to God for helping them find food in the wilderness. This may seem to be an obvious reason to give thanks to God...but it made me wonder how often I thank God for the food that I have. I've never been put in a situation where I haven't had any food to eat. It makes me wonder what I would do if I didn't have food. It also makes me want to be more grateful for the food that I do have. Having food in abundance is definitely something that I sometimes take for granted.
2 Nephi 9:
We are taught by Jacob to give thanks to God. In his sermon Jacob is reminding us to be thankful. Reminders are definitely necessary in keeping us on the right track. I don't have too much to say about this verse, but what I do know is that it is so important to be grateful. We are also commanded to listen to our prophets and church leaders. Jacob was a leader; therefore it is very important for us to listen to and obey his words.
2 Nephi 29:
This verse doesn't talk about thanks to God, but it asks whether the Gentiles have "thank[ed]" the Jews for the Bible. This is probably one of the only references so far that I have found without a specific reference to God. I can relate this to my life by remembering that it is extremely important to acknowledge the people around us for what they do. Thank you notes and expressions of love are great ways to go about showing gratitude for others.
Mosiah 2:
The first reference to thanks is in verse four and it talks about how King Benjamin's people brought offerings to give thanks to the Lord for delivering them and preserving them. The next few references are in verses 19 and 20. King Benjamin is speaking and is basically telling the people that if I deserve thanks from you, think of how much more thanks should be given to God. We should "render" all that we have in us to thank our God who has kept and preserved us each day. Every movement we make, every breath we take is dependent upon the will of God. For him to bless us and preserve every part of our being is something to be extremely grateful for.
Mosiah 8:
King Limhi gives thanks to God after Ammon tells him about all that seers can do (and that they can even translate the Jaredite plates). If I were in King Limhi's position I would probably feel the same way. It must've been such a great thing to learn about seers and their abilities. The power of God is so evident in their abilities.
Mosiah 18:
Alma commands the followers of Christ that they should give thanks to the Lord every day. Yet another important church leader commands us to give thanks. Thanks is very important, especially because so many prophets have taught us to be grateful and give thanks.
Mosiah 24:
Alma's people gave thanks to God after he had eased their burdens and helped them escape from bondage safely. Even though the Lord could not take away the burdens of Alma's people, he strengthened them and helped them carry their burdens. Also, he helped them escape. I love that the people of Alma didn't only credit themselves for their accomplishments, but thanked the Lord. They are such an amazing example of humility.
Mosiah 25:
After everyone is gathered back together in Zarahemla, they share their stories. When they hear the story of Alma, they thought of the goodness of God and began to thank Him. The message I got out of this is that just because you give thanks once doesn't mean you shouldn't do it it again. Thanks can be given over and over and over again. I don't think anyone will complain if you thank them too much! (Is that even possible?)
Mosiah 26:
The leaders of the church were commanded to tell the people to give "thanks in all things." Once again church leaders tell the people to give thanks. Thanks is becoming a common recurring theme in the Book of Mormon. No wonder so many of today's church leaders stress the importance of gratitude.
Alma 7:
We are taught to return thanks to God for anything that we receive. The word specifically used in this verse is "whatsoever" things that we receive. I like that because we should be thanking God for everything that we have; not just the big things. Small things too should be accounted for! Often the small things and the things we don't think about as often are the most important. (Like....the ability for me to breath at this very moment).
Alma 8:
Alma gives thanks to God after being taken into Amulek's home. I love that Alma, as powerful as he is, is still humble enough to thank the Lord. We always talk about the importance of humility in being able to follow the Savior. In order to become humble though, it is important to be grateful. Gratitude leads to humility, which allows us to be more willing to follow the commandments.
Alma 24:
I believe it is Anti-Nephi-Lehi's who are thanking God for several things: sending the Nephites to convince them of the wicked traditions of their fathers, giving them the Spirit to soften their hearts, being convinced of their sins through the softening of their heart, and for repentance and forgiveness. There is so much to be grateful for. I love the fact that the Anti-Nephi-Lehi's recognize that it was the power of God, not a single person or group of people that converted them to the true church of God.
Alma 26:
Ammon talks about giving thanks to the Lord in both verses. In verse 37 he specifically thanks God for being "mindful of every people." This specific verse has always been one of my favorites because it shows that God will remember me because he is "mindful of every people" wherever they live. I could live in the most remote place on earth and he would remember me. Looking at it from the gratitude perspective made me like this verse even more. I'm not sure if I've ever gave thanks to God for simply being mindful of me before.....but it is something so huge and important (it makes me feel special) and I should be acknowledging my Heavenly Father for what he does.
THANKSGIVING (used 3 times in the first half of the Book of Mormon)
According to the Webster's 1828 dictionary the definition of thanksgiving is...
"n. The act of rendering thanks or expressing gratitude for favors or mercies."
2 Nephi 8:
I'm not quite sure how to interpret this verse, but the idea that I got from it is that in Zion there will be much thanksgiving. That means that in great places where there is much comfort and love, there will be thanks also. Sometimes I try to imagine what it would be like in a world where people didn't show gratitude...and I feel that if that were the case there would be no love either. Therefore we must be grateful so that we can show love and feel love towards one another.
Alma 19:
Ammon falls to the earth and "pours" out his soul in thanksgiving to God for answering his prayers and "pouring" out the Spirit unto the Lamanites. I know that I've talked about this before, but I still love when people give all credit to the Lord for helping them in whatever task they have done. Ammon did preach to the Lamanite king, yet he knew that without the Spirit of the Lord, he could not have changed the ways of this king.
Alma 26:
In this verse Ammon pours out his soul in thanksgiving to God for being mindful of everyone and being so merciful. The same verse uses the word "thanks" as well. I think you get the same idea from each word and it gives emphasis to the idea of gratitude. I hope that I can show more gratitude for the Lord for simply knowing that I'm here and remembering me at all times.
I began my study by looking for the words thanks, thanksgiving, and gratitude. I wanted to search for praise too, but I decided to focus on thanks specifically. What I found most interesting is that the word gratitude isn't used at all in the entire Book of Mormon! Luckily there are references to thanks and thanksgiving :) This has really opened my eyes to the importance of expressing gratitude in all things and for all people.
THANKS (used 24 times in the first half of the Book of Mormon)
According to the Webster's 1828 dictionary the definition of thanks is...
"n. Expression of gratitude; an acknowledgment made to express a sense of favor or kindness received. Gratitude is the feeling or sentiment excited by kindness; thanks are the expression of that sentiment."
1 Nephi 2:
Lehi builds and altar and gives thanks to the Lord after leaving Jerusalem and settling in the wilderness. I found this really impressive because Lehi and his family had literally just left all their belongings behind to travel to a place they'd never been to and still managed to give thanks. That is so awesome. It makes me realize that even in times of trial there is still so much to thank our Heavenly Father for.
1 Nephi 5:
Lehi and his family give thanks unto God for preserving his sons and helping them obtain the brass plates from King Laban. Whenever good things happen to us we should give thanks to God. It is important to recognize that they did not only credit themselves for their success, but God. Without God's help, the sons of Lehi probably would not have been able to obtain the brass plates from Laban.
1 Nephi 7:
Lehi and Ishmael's family give thanks to God after He (God) forgives Laman and the others who helped in binding up Nephi. Often we give thanks for temporal things that we are given, but how often to we thank the Lord for forgiving us of our sins. That is one of the most important things that God can do because it concerns our eternal salvation. I need to work on explicitly expressing my gratitude towards the Lord for forgiving me of my sins.
1 Nephi 16:
Nephi and his family give thanks to God for helping them find food in the wilderness. This may seem to be an obvious reason to give thanks to God...but it made me wonder how often I thank God for the food that I have. I've never been put in a situation where I haven't had any food to eat. It makes me wonder what I would do if I didn't have food. It also makes me want to be more grateful for the food that I do have. Having food in abundance is definitely something that I sometimes take for granted.
2 Nephi 9:
We are taught by Jacob to give thanks to God. In his sermon Jacob is reminding us to be thankful. Reminders are definitely necessary in keeping us on the right track. I don't have too much to say about this verse, but what I do know is that it is so important to be grateful. We are also commanded to listen to our prophets and church leaders. Jacob was a leader; therefore it is very important for us to listen to and obey his words.
2 Nephi 29:
This verse doesn't talk about thanks to God, but it asks whether the Gentiles have "thank[ed]" the Jews for the Bible. This is probably one of the only references so far that I have found without a specific reference to God. I can relate this to my life by remembering that it is extremely important to acknowledge the people around us for what they do. Thank you notes and expressions of love are great ways to go about showing gratitude for others.
Mosiah 2:
The first reference to thanks is in verse four and it talks about how King Benjamin's people brought offerings to give thanks to the Lord for delivering them and preserving them. The next few references are in verses 19 and 20. King Benjamin is speaking and is basically telling the people that if I deserve thanks from you, think of how much more thanks should be given to God. We should "render" all that we have in us to thank our God who has kept and preserved us each day. Every movement we make, every breath we take is dependent upon the will of God. For him to bless us and preserve every part of our being is something to be extremely grateful for.
Mosiah 8:
King Limhi gives thanks to God after Ammon tells him about all that seers can do (and that they can even translate the Jaredite plates). If I were in King Limhi's position I would probably feel the same way. It must've been such a great thing to learn about seers and their abilities. The power of God is so evident in their abilities.
Mosiah 18:
Alma commands the followers of Christ that they should give thanks to the Lord every day. Yet another important church leader commands us to give thanks. Thanks is very important, especially because so many prophets have taught us to be grateful and give thanks.
Mosiah 24:
Alma's people gave thanks to God after he had eased their burdens and helped them escape from bondage safely. Even though the Lord could not take away the burdens of Alma's people, he strengthened them and helped them carry their burdens. Also, he helped them escape. I love that the people of Alma didn't only credit themselves for their accomplishments, but thanked the Lord. They are such an amazing example of humility.
Mosiah 25:
After everyone is gathered back together in Zarahemla, they share their stories. When they hear the story of Alma, they thought of the goodness of God and began to thank Him. The message I got out of this is that just because you give thanks once doesn't mean you shouldn't do it it again. Thanks can be given over and over and over again. I don't think anyone will complain if you thank them too much! (Is that even possible?)
Mosiah 26:
The leaders of the church were commanded to tell the people to give "thanks in all things." Once again church leaders tell the people to give thanks. Thanks is becoming a common recurring theme in the Book of Mormon. No wonder so many of today's church leaders stress the importance of gratitude.
Alma 7:
We are taught to return thanks to God for anything that we receive. The word specifically used in this verse is "whatsoever" things that we receive. I like that because we should be thanking God for everything that we have; not just the big things. Small things too should be accounted for! Often the small things and the things we don't think about as often are the most important. (Like....the ability for me to breath at this very moment).
Alma 8:
Alma gives thanks to God after being taken into Amulek's home. I love that Alma, as powerful as he is, is still humble enough to thank the Lord. We always talk about the importance of humility in being able to follow the Savior. In order to become humble though, it is important to be grateful. Gratitude leads to humility, which allows us to be more willing to follow the commandments.
Alma 24:
I believe it is Anti-Nephi-Lehi's who are thanking God for several things: sending the Nephites to convince them of the wicked traditions of their fathers, giving them the Spirit to soften their hearts, being convinced of their sins through the softening of their heart, and for repentance and forgiveness. There is so much to be grateful for. I love the fact that the Anti-Nephi-Lehi's recognize that it was the power of God, not a single person or group of people that converted them to the true church of God.
Alma 26:
Ammon talks about giving thanks to the Lord in both verses. In verse 37 he specifically thanks God for being "mindful of every people." This specific verse has always been one of my favorites because it shows that God will remember me because he is "mindful of every people" wherever they live. I could live in the most remote place on earth and he would remember me. Looking at it from the gratitude perspective made me like this verse even more. I'm not sure if I've ever gave thanks to God for simply being mindful of me before.....but it is something so huge and important (it makes me feel special) and I should be acknowledging my Heavenly Father for what he does.
THANKSGIVING (used 3 times in the first half of the Book of Mormon)
According to the Webster's 1828 dictionary the definition of thanksgiving is...
"n. The act of rendering thanks or expressing gratitude for favors or mercies."
2 Nephi 8:
I'm not quite sure how to interpret this verse, but the idea that I got from it is that in Zion there will be much thanksgiving. That means that in great places where there is much comfort and love, there will be thanks also. Sometimes I try to imagine what it would be like in a world where people didn't show gratitude...and I feel that if that were the case there would be no love either. Therefore we must be grateful so that we can show love and feel love towards one another.
Alma 19:
Ammon falls to the earth and "pours" out his soul in thanksgiving to God for answering his prayers and "pouring" out the Spirit unto the Lamanites. I know that I've talked about this before, but I still love when people give all credit to the Lord for helping them in whatever task they have done. Ammon did preach to the Lamanite king, yet he knew that without the Spirit of the Lord, he could not have changed the ways of this king.
Alma 26:
In this verse Ammon pours out his soul in thanksgiving to God for being mindful of everyone and being so merciful. The same verse uses the word "thanks" as well. I think you get the same idea from each word and it gives emphasis to the idea of gratitude. I hope that I can show more gratitude for the Lord for simply knowing that I'm here and remembering me at all times.
Day 50
I know people say it all the time, but the church is the same wherever you go. Nothing changes from place to place. The doctrine, the ordinances, and the love of the people remains constant...at least in all the places I've been to.
I'm not sure why, but I still get nervous when I go to different wards; perhaps because I don't know where the classrooms are or perhaps because I don't know anyone. I guess it's just important to remember that it's what you learn and do in church that means the most.
I'm just grateful that even in places that I've never been to and am unfamiliar with, for the most part there is at least one thing that I can count on, the gospel. And isn't that such an amazing thing? I definitely think so. :)
I'm not sure why, but I still get nervous when I go to different wards; perhaps because I don't know where the classrooms are or perhaps because I don't know anyone. I guess it's just important to remember that it's what you learn and do in church that means the most.
I'm just grateful that even in places that I've never been to and am unfamiliar with, for the most part there is at least one thing that I can count on, the gospel. And isn't that such an amazing thing? I definitely think so. :)
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Day 49
God does answer prayers.
Remember how on Day 44 I talked about the book I've been reading for Japanese? Well, I'd like to talk about it a little again.
Remember how on Day 44 I talked about the book I've been reading for Japanese? Well, I'd like to talk about it a little again.
One question that I continually asked myself as I read this book, is given the situation that Father Rodrigues is put in--to either apostatize and save all the people who are being tortured or not apostatize and cause the Catholic followers to be tormented--what would I do? I don't think I'll ever be in a situation as dire as this, but I still wanted to figure out what to do. I had a really difficult time figuring out what would be the right thing to do in the eyes of God, so I prayed. It's been a few days, but I've continually been praying about it and today as I was reading my scriptures I received an answer.
I am currently reading Alma 14 which is about Alma and Amulek witnessing the persecution of their followers. The women and children who believed in their words are being thrown into the fire. Amulek turns to Alma and asks, shouldn't we use the power of God to save them? Alma answers in verse 11 by saying "The Spirit constraineth me that I must not stretch forth mine hand; for behold the Lord receiveth them up unto himself, in glory; and he doth suffer that they may do this thing, or that the people may do this thing unto them, according to the hardness of their hearts, that the judgements which he shall exercise upon them in his wrath may be just; and the blood of the innocent shall stand as a witness against them, yea, and cry mightily against them at the last day." This answered my question so directly. I could not have asked for a better answer.
I know that the Lord truly answers all of our prayers, no matter how ridiculous (is that the right word to use?) they may seem to us. God loves us and he wants to help us; therefore, he is willing to answer any questions we have, whether they are small or big conflicts. It is such a blessing to know that my Heavenly Father will answer any of my prayers. I am so grateful.
Want to know something even cooler? Well, in my patriarchal blessing it says that if I have any questions regarding the gospel, I should turn to the scriptures. I haven't had any huge questions about the gospel until now....and this is a perfect illustration of the fulfillment of some of the words said in my patriarchal blessing; I had a question about the gospel, and I found my answer in the scriptures. How awesome!!
Friday, November 23, 2012
Day 48
Today we went and cut down a Christmas tree! It is my first time ever doing something like that. Back home we don't really have any to cut down, but here there is a plethora of lovely trees!!!!! What an experience it is to go out with your family and find the perfect tree. I am so grateful to be here with the Fife's. I can't imagine a better place besides my own home to spend Thanksgiving. They have so much love for everyone around them.
I want to talk about how grateful I am for trials. Now, you're probably thinking that that's a pretty strange comment to make, but it's so true. It sounds cliche, but without trials in my life I would not be the same person I am today. Trials have humbled me to my knees and have allowed me to strengthen my relationship with Heavenly Father. I know who I can turn to when I am having a hard time, and I can count on him to help me. Without trials, I wouldn't have been in humble enough to turn to my Father in Heaven; now I really do know that I can ask for his help in anything. Trials have made the great things that happen in my life even more sweet. As they say, there is opposition in all things. If I hadn't known what it felt like to feel sorrow, pain, and loneliness, I would not feel the same intense joy from amazing things that happen in my life. Trials make me more grateful for all that I have and to have been blessed with so much.
I love my Heavenly Father and my Savior Jesus Christ. I know they live. I know they love me. I know that if I am ever feeling lonely or afraid or in pain, I can trust in them.
I want to talk about how grateful I am for trials. Now, you're probably thinking that that's a pretty strange comment to make, but it's so true. It sounds cliche, but without trials in my life I would not be the same person I am today. Trials have humbled me to my knees and have allowed me to strengthen my relationship with Heavenly Father. I know who I can turn to when I am having a hard time, and I can count on him to help me. Without trials, I wouldn't have been in humble enough to turn to my Father in Heaven; now I really do know that I can ask for his help in anything. Trials have made the great things that happen in my life even more sweet. As they say, there is opposition in all things. If I hadn't known what it felt like to feel sorrow, pain, and loneliness, I would not feel the same intense joy from amazing things that happen in my life. Trials make me more grateful for all that I have and to have been blessed with so much.
I love my Heavenly Father and my Savior Jesus Christ. I know they live. I know they love me. I know that if I am ever feeling lonely or afraid or in pain, I can trust in them.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Day 47
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Today I want to just list out a bunch of the things that I am grateful for.....
I'm grateful to have a loving family who supports me and cares about me.
I'm grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ, who has atoned for all my sins and made it possible to return to Heavenly Father one day.
I'm grateful that my sister-in-law's family has opened up their home to me so that I can have a place to spend Thanksgiving.
I'm grateful for the scriptures which give me a greater knowledge of the gospel. Each time I read the scriptures I feel so much peace inside.
I'm grateful to be going to BYU and for all the wonderful experiences I have had there.
There are way too many things to list, but these are just a few of the things I am grateful for. I don't think I could manage to post everything that I am and should be grateful for in just one blog post. The Lord has truly blessed and preserved me. I really hope that I can be more grateful each day and learn to become the best person that I can be.
Today I want to just list out a bunch of the things that I am grateful for.....
I'm grateful to have a loving family who supports me and cares about me.
I'm grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ, who has atoned for all my sins and made it possible to return to Heavenly Father one day.
I'm grateful that my sister-in-law's family has opened up their home to me so that I can have a place to spend Thanksgiving.
I'm grateful for the scriptures which give me a greater knowledge of the gospel. Each time I read the scriptures I feel so much peace inside.
I'm grateful to be going to BYU and for all the wonderful experiences I have had there.
There are way too many things to list, but these are just a few of the things I am grateful for. I don't think I could manage to post everything that I am and should be grateful for in just one blog post. The Lord has truly blessed and preserved me. I really hope that I can be more grateful each day and learn to become the best person that I can be.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Day 46
Last night my friend got a text message saying that her friend's roommate passed away while driving home with her brother for Thanksgiving. It broke my heart to think of a young girl who had her whole life ahead of her lose it in an instant. I also thought about her parents who must be hurting so much. I can't even imagine what they are going through. But then I thought about where this girl is right now. I know that if she lived her life with faith in Christ and followed his teachings she is in a good place. She is definitely in a more peaceful and lovely place than this earth.
I am so grateful for the atonement of Jesus Christ. He descended below everyone and everything so that we can all have the opportunity to be saved. He atoned for our sins, our sorrows, and our pains. I know that through him we can be lifted up in whatever trial we are going through. He knows what we are going through and he's felt what we feel. He won't take away the burdens, but He will make them easier to bear.
Hearing about this experience also makes me feel so much gratitude for the fact that my family and I have been preserved and are continually being preserved to this day. It makes me want to cherish every single moment I will have with them when I go home for Christmas. I love my family so much!
I am so grateful for the atonement of Jesus Christ. He descended below everyone and everything so that we can all have the opportunity to be saved. He atoned for our sins, our sorrows, and our pains. I know that through him we can be lifted up in whatever trial we are going through. He knows what we are going through and he's felt what we feel. He won't take away the burdens, but He will make them easier to bear.
Hearing about this experience also makes me feel so much gratitude for the fact that my family and I have been preserved and are continually being preserved to this day. It makes me want to cherish every single moment I will have with them when I go home for Christmas. I love my family so much!
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Day 45
Today two of my friends and I went up to Salt Lake for fun. While we were at Deseret Book we saw one of my cousin's mission companions! I was surprised that she even remembered me. Anyway, it was such a wonderful coincidence/blessing that we saw each other because the sister is getting married soon and she wanted to contact my cousin but wasn't sure how.
It is amazing to see how a mission truly blesses the lives of those who serve. I know I've definitely talked about her before, but my cousin, Tricia, has been a huge influence on my decision to serve a mission (and I'm so grateful). I love hearing about all their experiences and want to have the same love that they have for the people they serve. I hope that I can be even half as incredible as my cousin and her companion were on their missions.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Day 44
So as usual I left my Japanese reading until the very last minute! Haha...I'm not sure why I always do this. Anyway, I woke up at 4:30 am to finish a book called Silence by class at 11 am. It was probably one of the most stressful experiences I've had this semester, but everything worked out. Also, I learned a lot from this book by Endo Shusaku! And it helped me recognize something that I am grateful for.
This book is about Catholics in Japan during the 1600s (I believe). The Catholic people in Japan are having a very difficult time and are being persecuted constantly. I couldn't ever imagine being put in their situation. The Japanese Catholics and Catholic missionaries are not only mocked, but they are brutally tortured. This is done to them mostly because the Japanese think that Catholicism is a threat to their country; it doesn't fit with their belief systems, especially that of worshipping the emperor as if he were a god.
Sometimes I used to think I had it hard being one of the few members of the church in my high school. Compared to the people in this book however, I had such an easy time. The people at school never teased me or tortured me for my beliefs. I am so grateful to live in a country that is founded upon principles of freedom of religion. It would be extremely difficult if I could not practice my religion openly in my own country. The Lord has truly blessed America.
This book is about Catholics in Japan during the 1600s (I believe). The Catholic people in Japan are having a very difficult time and are being persecuted constantly. I couldn't ever imagine being put in their situation. The Japanese Catholics and Catholic missionaries are not only mocked, but they are brutally tortured. This is done to them mostly because the Japanese think that Catholicism is a threat to their country; it doesn't fit with their belief systems, especially that of worshipping the emperor as if he were a god.
Sometimes I used to think I had it hard being one of the few members of the church in my high school. Compared to the people in this book however, I had such an easy time. The people at school never teased me or tortured me for my beliefs. I am so grateful to live in a country that is founded upon principles of freedom of religion. It would be extremely difficult if I could not practice my religion openly in my own country. The Lord has truly blessed America.
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| The cover of Silence |
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Day 43
There are a few things that I want to express gratitude for in my post today.
For the last couple months I've been so in tune with the spirit; more than I've ever been in my entire life. I think it's because I've been setting goals for scripture reading (and for the most part sticking to them), I've been going to the temple once a week, and I've been surrounded by such wonderful gospel influences. These years of my life are some of the most formative years. I'm on my own, and I'm figuring out what habits I will start/stop and the direction I want to take with my life. The decisions I make now will forever affect who I become. I am grateful to be spending my time here. Coming to BYU was literally the best and biggest decision I've made in my entire life so far. I couldn't have chosen a better place to spend my college years.
I have been blessed with such a wonderful ward. Today the talks and lessons were incredible. I actually cried! ..... Twice! One talk that really touched me that related to our Relief Society Lesson was about love. One young man talked about how the best way to show your love is through time. I couldn't agree more. Time is the most precious gift we have, and to share it with the people you love is the most important thing you could ever do. It doesn't matter how many fancy clothes, shoes, or toys you give someone, what matters is the time you spend with that person. I'm never going to remember each present that I got from my parents or from Santa every year of my life, but I will remember my dad taking me to and from school every day and listening to me vent in the car. We would argue all the time on those car rides, but I couldn't have asked for a better supporter. My dad gave up so much of his time just to take me to school, to make my lunch every morning, and to actually care enough to give me advice and encourage me to make the right decisions even when I didn't want to hear what he had to say. He took the time to listen to all my problems and he never judged me or made me feel like I wasn't worth his time. I am so grateful. Also, I know I've talked about him before, but my brother and his family came to every important event my senior year. They were gone for a long time while my brother was finishing his schooling, but when they came back they made the time to come to everything. It definitely wasn't easy for them because they live so far away from my school and house to come to things, but they made the time. No material gift could ever match up to the time and sacrifices they made to support me. My mom is an incredible example of someone who devotes her time to others. She is constantly doing service for everyone. Service takes so much time. I don't know how she does it with all the work she has to do, but somehow she manages to do things such as making blankets for children who's parents are serving in the military. Those are some of the most beautiful blankets I've ever seen. She takes pictures of the children that has been printed on to cloth and sews them together with cute patterns and makes quilts! My mom uses her time is such a selfless way. On top of that she took the time to raise her children. Our success is in no small part due to the time and effort of our loving mother. I am also grateful for everyone in my life who has taken the time to listen to me, to comfort me, to teach me, to love me. There are so many people who have done all those things for me and I wish that I could thank every single one. I hope that I will remember the importance of time as I go forward and have my own family. I am blessed to have such wonderful people in my life. I don't know how I deserved such loving people in my life, but the Lord really did bless me :)
For the last couple months I've been so in tune with the spirit; more than I've ever been in my entire life. I think it's because I've been setting goals for scripture reading (and for the most part sticking to them), I've been going to the temple once a week, and I've been surrounded by such wonderful gospel influences. These years of my life are some of the most formative years. I'm on my own, and I'm figuring out what habits I will start/stop and the direction I want to take with my life. The decisions I make now will forever affect who I become. I am grateful to be spending my time here. Coming to BYU was literally the best and biggest decision I've made in my entire life so far. I couldn't have chosen a better place to spend my college years.
I have been blessed with such a wonderful ward. Today the talks and lessons were incredible. I actually cried! ..... Twice! One talk that really touched me that related to our Relief Society Lesson was about love. One young man talked about how the best way to show your love is through time. I couldn't agree more. Time is the most precious gift we have, and to share it with the people you love is the most important thing you could ever do. It doesn't matter how many fancy clothes, shoes, or toys you give someone, what matters is the time you spend with that person. I'm never going to remember each present that I got from my parents or from Santa every year of my life, but I will remember my dad taking me to and from school every day and listening to me vent in the car. We would argue all the time on those car rides, but I couldn't have asked for a better supporter. My dad gave up so much of his time just to take me to school, to make my lunch every morning, and to actually care enough to give me advice and encourage me to make the right decisions even when I didn't want to hear what he had to say. He took the time to listen to all my problems and he never judged me or made me feel like I wasn't worth his time. I am so grateful. Also, I know I've talked about him before, but my brother and his family came to every important event my senior year. They were gone for a long time while my brother was finishing his schooling, but when they came back they made the time to come to everything. It definitely wasn't easy for them because they live so far away from my school and house to come to things, but they made the time. No material gift could ever match up to the time and sacrifices they made to support me. My mom is an incredible example of someone who devotes her time to others. She is constantly doing service for everyone. Service takes so much time. I don't know how she does it with all the work she has to do, but somehow she manages to do things such as making blankets for children who's parents are serving in the military. Those are some of the most beautiful blankets I've ever seen. She takes pictures of the children that has been printed on to cloth and sews them together with cute patterns and makes quilts! My mom uses her time is such a selfless way. On top of that she took the time to raise her children. Our success is in no small part due to the time and effort of our loving mother. I am also grateful for everyone in my life who has taken the time to listen to me, to comfort me, to teach me, to love me. There are so many people who have done all those things for me and I wish that I could thank every single one. I hope that I will remember the importance of time as I go forward and have my own family. I am blessed to have such wonderful people in my life. I don't know how I deserved such loving people in my life, but the Lord really did bless me :)
Day 42
Today was such an awesome day! I got an entire 14 hours of sleep :) BYU won for soccer as well! That was probably the most exciting game of the season.
I'm so blessed to be surrounded by such amazing people at BYU. Today I had the opportunity to go to the soccer game and DISCO SKATING with my friends :) At a place like this (Provo) we are able to have so much fun doing wholesome activities. I love every minute of it! I couldn't imagine myself being anywhere different, even though a year ago I wasn't sure if this was the place I wanted to go to college. I am so grateful that I was prompted to come here to BYU.
I also got to spend time with my friend, Cassie, from home. We grew up in the same ward together and she goes to UVU. I love being around her :)
I'm so blessed to be surrounded by such amazing people at BYU. Today I had the opportunity to go to the soccer game and DISCO SKATING with my friends :) At a place like this (Provo) we are able to have so much fun doing wholesome activities. I love every minute of it! I couldn't imagine myself being anywhere different, even though a year ago I wasn't sure if this was the place I wanted to go to college. I am so grateful that I was prompted to come here to BYU.
I also got to spend time with my friend, Cassie, from home. We grew up in the same ward together and she goes to UVU. I love being around her :)
Friday, November 16, 2012
Day 41
Today my friends and I went to see Vocal Point perform. It was such a blessing to have the opportunity to go! Not only did the group sing popular music, but they also sang church music. It was so spiritual yet fun! I love that these people have been sharing their talents along with sharing the gospel all over the world. It is so wonderful to be able to share things about the church through one's talents.
I just wanted to share my appreciation for the talents that I have been given. My talents may not be as amazing as the talented men of Vocal Point, but I know that if I use them to the best of my ability I'll be able to help someone. Heavenly Father has blessed all of us so much and I am so so grateful.
http://youtu.be/FEiysgijLyY ("The Way You Look Tonight)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9UsDl5gSuo&feature=share&list=PL0EEFA90852A9DA6E
(Nearer My God to Thee)
I just wanted to share my appreciation for the talents that I have been given. My talents may not be as amazing as the talented men of Vocal Point, but I know that if I use them to the best of my ability I'll be able to help someone. Heavenly Father has blessed all of us so much and I am so so grateful.
http://youtu.be/FEiysgijLyY ("The Way You Look Tonight)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9UsDl5gSuo&feature=share&list=PL0EEFA90852A9DA6E
(Nearer My God to Thee)
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Day 40
I am so grateful for the physical abilities I have been given. I am no olympic athlete, or collegiate athlete for that matter, but I am able to do physical activities such as running, swimming, and biking! Unfortunately, not everyone in the world has that opportunity. Whether it's because they have a lot of work, don't have a pool/bike nearby, or physically cannot participate. Heavenly Father has blessed me so much especially with good health and I am so grateful.
When I was in 10th grade I started to have problems with my back. I have no idea why or how it began, but for some reason I kept having pain in my lower back. I ignored it for a while, but then in started getting really bad, so I told my parents. (Please don't take what I say next the wrong way! My parents are great people!) I told them about how my back was hurting constantly, whether I was sitting or standing. My parents just told me to just take ibuprofin and it would get better. (They're doctors, so I guess they've seen much worse). Anyway, one day I was walking from the library to the chemistry classroom, which are literally 100 yards apart. All of a sudden I was in so much pain that in order to even walk that short distance I had to hold on to the side of the wall. I couldn't believe it. My whole life I had been able to walk normally without pain and now I could barely walk 100 yards! When I got home that day I told my parents what had happened and they got me a back brace. I think they might've underestimated the amount of pain I was in, but I took the back brace because at least it was something! Finally, my parents realized that this was a really serious issue and had me go in for an MRI. You have no idea how scared I was. I would sometimes have dreams about never being able to walk without pain and having to lie in bed all the time. It sounds a little dramatic...probably because I am a little dramatic haha...but it seemed so real to me. Also, I would worry about never being able to play sports again, especially water polo. I didn't want to give up something I loved so much. When the test results came back we found out that I had a protruded disk in my spine. Luckily it wasn't herniated, but if I kept working my back to hard it could happen. I was soooo grateful that my injury could be healed without surgery. Sure, it would still hurt, but it was curable.
Having that experience with my injury and fearing that I couldn't walk made me so much more grateful to be able to function normally today. I couldn't imagine my life without sports and exercise. I am so appreciative of the Lord who has helped me so much!
When I was in 10th grade I started to have problems with my back. I have no idea why or how it began, but for some reason I kept having pain in my lower back. I ignored it for a while, but then in started getting really bad, so I told my parents. (Please don't take what I say next the wrong way! My parents are great people!) I told them about how my back was hurting constantly, whether I was sitting or standing. My parents just told me to just take ibuprofin and it would get better. (They're doctors, so I guess they've seen much worse). Anyway, one day I was walking from the library to the chemistry classroom, which are literally 100 yards apart. All of a sudden I was in so much pain that in order to even walk that short distance I had to hold on to the side of the wall. I couldn't believe it. My whole life I had been able to walk normally without pain and now I could barely walk 100 yards! When I got home that day I told my parents what had happened and they got me a back brace. I think they might've underestimated the amount of pain I was in, but I took the back brace because at least it was something! Finally, my parents realized that this was a really serious issue and had me go in for an MRI. You have no idea how scared I was. I would sometimes have dreams about never being able to walk without pain and having to lie in bed all the time. It sounds a little dramatic...probably because I am a little dramatic haha...but it seemed so real to me. Also, I would worry about never being able to play sports again, especially water polo. I didn't want to give up something I loved so much. When the test results came back we found out that I had a protruded disk in my spine. Luckily it wasn't herniated, but if I kept working my back to hard it could happen. I was soooo grateful that my injury could be healed without surgery. Sure, it would still hurt, but it was curable.
Having that experience with my injury and fearing that I couldn't walk made me so much more grateful to be able to function normally today. I couldn't imagine my life without sports and exercise. I am so appreciative of the Lord who has helped me so much!
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Day 39
While I was reading my scriptures today, I took notes in my personal journal. After writing my thoughts down I started flipping through old journal entries. I have some regrets, mostly about not writing in enough detail....but I am so grateful that I kept a journal! (Well actually, I am grateful that the Lord revealed to his servants that they needed to reveal to me that I need to keep a journal. Wow that's kind of confusing!) There are little things that I've written in the journal that I would not have remembered had I not written it down. I wrote about specific days when we went to the beach with my niece and nephews and we had the greatest time. I would write down some inspirational quotes or scriptures that I had found. I wrote about things ranging from senior camp to general conference. I wrote down all the trials that I was going through and my testimony. I wrote about my fears and my hopes. So much of my life has been written in this little journal. Reading the journal brought back so many memories. It gives me confidence and hope for what lies ahead. I also can learn from the trials that I have gone through in the past and apply it to myself now. I hope that one day my journal will be able to help all my future children.
I am so grateful that the officers of the church have told us to keep journals. I never truly understood why until now. Journals are so awesome and I know that there is a reason why I have been keeping them!
I am so grateful that the officers of the church have told us to keep journals. I never truly understood why until now. Journals are so awesome and I know that there is a reason why I have been keeping them!
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Day 38
I'm not quite sure what's been going on with me posting after 12am....but I still consider this to be a true 'Day 38' post :)
I'm not sure why, but I can never remember everything that I've posted about in the past. Anway, today I wanted to talk about how grateful I am for my water polo coach senior year. He was recently inducted into the Hawaii Hall of Fame for Swimming/Water polo. I wrote this as a sort of "thank you/tribute" to him for that day:
I don't know how to start this without sounding cliche...Chaney has helped to shape me into not just a better water polo player but a better person as well. I admire how he doesn't just focus on the big issues but he focuses on the little things as well, like being on time (well early actually) and jumping into the water as a team. The simple habits made our team extremely close and disciplined. The year that I played under Chaney was by far the best year of my water polo career. He sure works you hard....REALLY HARD....but it's worth it. I improved exponentially as a player, I learned how to be a leader, I learned to be disciplined, and I learned how to listen. That year our team bonded so well! I became so close to the team, closer than I've ever been to another group of girls! I can't thank Chaney enough for what he has done for me. He prepared me not just for games, but for life. He inspired me to work hard in what I do in whatever I choose, whether it's water polo or not. Chaney is one of the most selfless people I know. He puts so much work into coaching and helping our development. I know that I can always count on him!
Being able to play under Coach Chaney was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I was so blessed to have been there in the first year he came back to coach! I definitely would not be the same person I am now if it weren't for him. I have become so much more dedicated to the things that I do, water polo or not because of Chaney. I know that it was no coincidence that I was able to play for him, even for only one year. The Lord knew that I needed Chaney's guidance, inspiration, and rules of discipline in my life at that time and place. I am forever grateful.
I'm not sure why, but I can never remember everything that I've posted about in the past. Anway, today I wanted to talk about how grateful I am for my water polo coach senior year. He was recently inducted into the Hawaii Hall of Fame for Swimming/Water polo. I wrote this as a sort of "thank you/tribute" to him for that day:
I don't know how to start this without sounding cliche...Chaney has helped to shape me into not just a better water polo player but a better person as well. I admire how he doesn't just focus on the big issues but he focuses on the little things as well, like being on time (well early actually) and jumping into the water as a team. The simple habits made our team extremely close and disciplined. The year that I played under Chaney was by far the best year of my water polo career. He sure works you hard....REALLY HARD....but it's worth it. I improved exponentially as a player, I learned how to be a leader, I learned to be disciplined, and I learned how to listen. That year our team bonded so well! I became so close to the team, closer than I've ever been to another group of girls! I can't thank Chaney enough for what he has done for me. He prepared me not just for games, but for life. He inspired me to work hard in what I do in whatever I choose, whether it's water polo or not. Chaney is one of the most selfless people I know. He puts so much work into coaching and helping our development. I know that I can always count on him!
Being able to play under Coach Chaney was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I was so blessed to have been there in the first year he came back to coach! I definitely would not be the same person I am now if it weren't for him. I have become so much more dedicated to the things that I do, water polo or not because of Chaney. I know that it was no coincidence that I was able to play for him, even for only one year. The Lord knew that I needed Chaney's guidance, inspiration, and rules of discipline in my life at that time and place. I am forever grateful.
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| Seniors and the Coaches! |
Monday, November 12, 2012
Day 37
I am so grateful for modern technology! I posted about technology yesterday too, but I have a different reason today :)
Technology makes it so much easier to keep in contact with your loved ones. My parents left for Japan this morning and while they're gone I'll mainly communicate with them by email or Facebook, but also through text (my dad bought 200 text messages to use internationally!) Not too long ago, it was practically impossible to use an American cell phone overseas....and Facebook?! What was that??? Haha. Also, I love the fact that I can talk to my friends who are all over the country attending college. Some are in New York, some in Omaha, a few in Washington and Oregon, and some in California. It is the most amazing thing to be able to feel so close even though we're miles and miles apart.
Heavenly Father has definitely blessed our generation with AWESOME technology and I am so grateful for it!
Technology makes it so much easier to keep in contact with your loved ones. My parents left for Japan this morning and while they're gone I'll mainly communicate with them by email or Facebook, but also through text (my dad bought 200 text messages to use internationally!) Not too long ago, it was practically impossible to use an American cell phone overseas....and Facebook?! What was that??? Haha. Also, I love the fact that I can talk to my friends who are all over the country attending college. Some are in New York, some in Omaha, a few in Washington and Oregon, and some in California. It is the most amazing thing to be able to feel so close even though we're miles and miles apart.
Heavenly Father has definitely blessed our generation with AWESOME technology and I am so grateful for it!
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Day 36
I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends here who encourage me to do great things :)
This afternoon two girls in my hall, Ali and Mariah, asked if I wanted to go to the family history library (at the library haha) with them. The family history center over there is open two Sundays a month (if I'm not mistaken). This just happened to be one of those Sundays. I had nothing better to do, so I decided to go along with them.
We went to the family history center to index, which is basically entering information from pictures into the computer system. (I hope I described that correctly!) Anyway, it was a little confusing at first, but once I got the hang of it I couldn't stop! I happened to be indexing files from the draft, and it was so interesting to see the different ages, occupations, and birthplaces of all these men. Each had a different background and it was such an amazing feeling to think that those men who were drafted lived on this earth and had families and lives and hopes and dreams just like I do.
I know that my generation has been blessed with the ability to use technology partially to increase family history work. (I couldn't imagine my grandma doing what my friends and I did today. Heehee). We are so blessed to live in these times, and I hope that everyone who has the ability will use their technological skills to push forward family history work! It is soooooooo awesome!
This afternoon two girls in my hall, Ali and Mariah, asked if I wanted to go to the family history library (at the library haha) with them. The family history center over there is open two Sundays a month (if I'm not mistaken). This just happened to be one of those Sundays. I had nothing better to do, so I decided to go along with them.
We went to the family history center to index, which is basically entering information from pictures into the computer system. (I hope I described that correctly!) Anyway, it was a little confusing at first, but once I got the hang of it I couldn't stop! I happened to be indexing files from the draft, and it was so interesting to see the different ages, occupations, and birthplaces of all these men. Each had a different background and it was such an amazing feeling to think that those men who were drafted lived on this earth and had families and lives and hopes and dreams just like I do.
I know that my generation has been blessed with the ability to use technology partially to increase family history work. (I couldn't imagine my grandma doing what my friends and I did today. Heehee). We are so blessed to live in these times, and I hope that everyone who has the ability will use their technological skills to push forward family history work! It is soooooooo awesome!
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Day 35
I can't remember if I posted about this or not, but I don't actually think I did. I want to talk about how grateful I am to have a Lord who answers our prayers. This is what I wrote for a Book of Mormon challenge we had for class.
The challenge I did came from the lesson on Enos through Words of
Mormon. It asks, “What does your
soul hunger for?” Then to “Think
of something that you are concerned about and make a plan of how you can ‘wrestle
before God’ in mighty prayer.
Wrestle before the Lord (in mighty prayer)! He will speak to your mind.”
Before I came to college I thought I knew exactly what I wanted to
do. I would come to BYU get good
grades, major in political science, and get into NYU Law School. I would then practice law, clerk for
the Supreme Court, and become a judge.
I would work my way up in the judicial system and eventually be
appointed as a Supreme Court Justice.
Well, once I came to college, things started to change for me. I still love politics, government, and
law, but coming here made me realize that there are so many more options to
choose from. This got me to
rethink what I want to do with my life.
It’s difficult to not know exactly what you want to do or where you’re
going, especially when you’ve thought one way your whole entire life. I knew that I should eventually pray
about it, but I kept putting it off as if I had lots of time. When we got this challenge, I thought
that now might be a good time to pray about my major and future career. However, I was lazy and kept pushing it
off. I’m still not sure why I did
that, but eventually I came around to it.
When I decided to do this, I was in my room about to study my scriptures. I prayed and confessed all of my doubts
and confusions to Heavenly Father and then asked if he could help me to figure
out exactly what I should do with my life. I tried hard to look and listen for answers as I read my
scriptures, but no answers came. I
was utterly confused! Sure, I felt
much calmer after praying, but I wanted direct answers that would tell me
exactly what I needed to do. When
I studied the scriptures I started looking up references to decisions and
choices, but none of them gave me any answers. Then, I decided to use a scripture study tool,
scriptures.byu.edu! J I typed in the word
decision and started looking at talks on decisions. I came across one that was published in the May 1978 Ensign. It is written by Elder Eldred G. Smith,
who was patriarch to the church at the time. It was in this that I found the answer to my question:
“Many think that any
problem will be answered by the Lord for us, either through prayer or a
priesthood blessing. Some young people want the Lord to tell them what subjects
they should study, which school they should attend, which profession to follow,
and which job offer they should take. True, much help may be received through
prayer or a blessing, but the final decision is yours. I have come to believe that the Lord is
not so concerned about what we study or what profession we follow as long as it
is an honest living. He is concerned about our immortality and eternal life—or
exaltation. Everyone has inherent
talents. From a study of your genealogy, find the talents you have inherited by
the things you like to do, and do easily, that some of your ancestors have
done. Then become an expert or a specialist in some phase of that field. The
Lord will bless your efforts in your studies and in your daily work.”
I couldn’t have asked for a more direct answer to my prayer. When I thought that all hope was lost
as for the Lord answering my prayers…He ended up answering them in an extremely
direct and personal way. Elder
Smith didn’t know that years from now his talk would help some regular college
girl who was confused about her future, but the Lord did. That is what is so amazing about His
work. I know that the Lord will
answer our prayers if we have a real desire and trust in him.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Day 34
Today was awesome! It snowed all day :) Yes, it was freezing, but it was so fun.
I want to talk about how grateful I am for little things in my life. Today wasn't easy and yet somehow I made it through. When things get hard and stressful I tend to forget how amazing everything around me is. I forget how blessed I am and how much love there is surrounding me. One awesome little thing that happened that was the highlight of my day was that I had my first ever snowball fight! Brittany and I were walking back from the basketball game and saw that someone had built a snowman. We wanted to take a picture next to it, so we decided to ask the next group of people that walked by. The next group happened to include my friend Chisa from home :) She was with Lexi, Matt, and Bradley. They all started throwing snow at us so we ended up having a full-fledged snowball fight. It was the simplest thing, yet soooooo fun. There's something about the little moments in life that make everything worth it. The snow may be cold, but it sure is fun to play in!
I want to talk about how grateful I am for little things in my life. Today wasn't easy and yet somehow I made it through. When things get hard and stressful I tend to forget how amazing everything around me is. I forget how blessed I am and how much love there is surrounding me. One awesome little thing that happened that was the highlight of my day was that I had my first ever snowball fight! Brittany and I were walking back from the basketball game and saw that someone had built a snowman. We wanted to take a picture next to it, so we decided to ask the next group of people that walked by. The next group happened to include my friend Chisa from home :) She was with Lexi, Matt, and Bradley. They all started throwing snow at us so we ended up having a full-fledged snowball fight. It was the simplest thing, yet soooooo fun. There's something about the little moments in life that make everything worth it. The snow may be cold, but it sure is fun to play in!
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| a smaller snowman earlier today :) |
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Day 33
Just a little while ago I went to the Provo temple. I've probably been to the temple to do baptisms more times since I've gotten to college than in the entire 6 years since I turned 12. It is such a great experience to be literally just a few minutes away from the temple. I've grown so much spiritually as I've gone to the temple frequently. I am so blessed to be here at BYU.
While I was at the temple today there was a huuuuuuuge line (especially for the middle of the day). Anyway, in the seating area where you wait, there is a giant window that allows you to see the baptismal font. I was watching the baptisms when I saw that they didn't have anyone to perform the ordinance. Apparently the person who was supposed to be there was running late. I got pretty sad and thought that maybe I should leave because it might be a while till they got someone to do the ordinance, however, I decided to stay. Right after that realization, a temple worker came out and asked if there were any endowed brethren who could perform the baptisms. (Now usually there aren't too many men, but today there were a fair number). The guy sitting right near me raised his hand and offered to perform the baptisms.
You're probably wondering, well why does this matter? There are a few things that stuck out to me about this. First, the man was willing to serve when the opportunity arose. He didn't hesitate or shy away from the request. Second, the man was prepared. The preparation came from being worthy to enter the temple and worthy of being endowed. It came from honoring his priesthood and being ready at all times to use it when necessary. Even though I'm not a man and I don't have the priesthood there are things that I can take away from this. Am I constantly willing to serve? If someone needed my help right now, would I be ready to help them? Am I worthy to do whatever the Lord asks of me at any time or place? These are things that I hope I am prepared for.
Witnessing this experience at the temple has made me recognize changes that I need to make in my life and ways that I can make myself a better person. I am so grateful for all the blessings that I have. I know that nothing can stop the Lord's work.
While I was at the temple today there was a huuuuuuuge line (especially for the middle of the day). Anyway, in the seating area where you wait, there is a giant window that allows you to see the baptismal font. I was watching the baptisms when I saw that they didn't have anyone to perform the ordinance. Apparently the person who was supposed to be there was running late. I got pretty sad and thought that maybe I should leave because it might be a while till they got someone to do the ordinance, however, I decided to stay. Right after that realization, a temple worker came out and asked if there were any endowed brethren who could perform the baptisms. (Now usually there aren't too many men, but today there were a fair number). The guy sitting right near me raised his hand and offered to perform the baptisms.
You're probably wondering, well why does this matter? There are a few things that stuck out to me about this. First, the man was willing to serve when the opportunity arose. He didn't hesitate or shy away from the request. Second, the man was prepared. The preparation came from being worthy to enter the temple and worthy of being endowed. It came from honoring his priesthood and being ready at all times to use it when necessary. Even though I'm not a man and I don't have the priesthood there are things that I can take away from this. Am I constantly willing to serve? If someone needed my help right now, would I be ready to help them? Am I worthy to do whatever the Lord asks of me at any time or place? These are things that I hope I am prepared for.
Witnessing this experience at the temple has made me recognize changes that I need to make in my life and ways that I can make myself a better person. I am so grateful for all the blessings that I have. I know that nothing can stop the Lord's work.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Day 32
I've talked about my roommate Kylie before, but today I just want to say again how grateful I am to have her as a roomie! A girl in my biology class was talking to me today about how she wants to change rooms next semester because she doesn't exactly connect well with her roommate. I never thought about it much before, but I'm sure that there are many people who are in the same boat (although, there are many people who absolutely love their roommates too). I hope that they all find a solution to the things they are going through.
Thinking about all this made me realize how blessed I am. I have a roommate who I can trust, who I get along really well with, and who I can be myself around.
Thinking about all this made me realize how blessed I am. I have a roommate who I can trust, who I get along really well with, and who I can be myself around.
Day 31
AGAIN! I forgot to post last night :( But I have a semi-excuse even though excuses will never be enough to compensate. Yesterday we got back kind of late after exit polling. This is what I would've posted about yesterday.
I had the unique opportunity to be a part of the Utah Colleges Exit Poll. It was an interesting experience for me especially because I'm into politics. Our assignment was sometimes stressful, but through it I was able to gain a lot of insight. I wasn't able to know the exact results of the survey, but I did learn about people in general.
To be honest, I'm the type of person who tries to avoid eye contact with any pollsters or sales people who might come up to me wherever I am. This time though, I was on the opposite side. I had to approach people to encourage them to participate in something. It wasn't easy, but for the most part people were very nice. Although, there was one man who said that exit polls come from the devil...which doesn't make much sense, but he's entitled to his own opinion. Anyway, I'm really grateful that I had this experience because it makes me want to be all the more kind to people who approach me.
I had the unique opportunity to be a part of the Utah Colleges Exit Poll. It was an interesting experience for me especially because I'm into politics. Our assignment was sometimes stressful, but through it I was able to gain a lot of insight. I wasn't able to know the exact results of the survey, but I did learn about people in general.
To be honest, I'm the type of person who tries to avoid eye contact with any pollsters or sales people who might come up to me wherever I am. This time though, I was on the opposite side. I had to approach people to encourage them to participate in something. It wasn't easy, but for the most part people were very nice. Although, there was one man who said that exit polls come from the devil...which doesn't make much sense, but he's entitled to his own opinion. Anyway, I'm really grateful that I had this experience because it makes me want to be all the more kind to people who approach me.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Day 30
This summer I had the opportunity to work in a pathology lab doing research. To be completely honest I did not like doing the work at all...it sounds harsh, but I hated it. I would complain and cry all the time to my parents, especially my dad, who basically forced me into doing it. The research was boring (I wasn't even getting paid!) and I was completely against going into the medical field. However, I went every day and did the work I was supposed to. Eventually I started to enjoy going to work and actually being a part of something important.
We were working on a project that was to be submitted to two different medical conferences; one in Boston and one in Japan. I ended up making a poster in English and then translating it into Japanese for the presentations. It was the coolest thing I've ever done in my life. Turns out that our project got accepted and just this past weekend was presented in Boston. I could not believe that something I had worked on had been presented at a real medical meeting! I am so grateful that my parents pushed me to continue and that they even gave me this opportunity in the first place. It may have seemed a hassle at the time, but it was all worth it.
We were working on a project that was to be submitted to two different medical conferences; one in Boston and one in Japan. I ended up making a poster in English and then translating it into Japanese for the presentations. It was the coolest thing I've ever done in my life. Turns out that our project got accepted and just this past weekend was presented in Boston. I could not believe that something I had worked on had been presented at a real medical meeting! I am so grateful that my parents pushed me to continue and that they even gave me this opportunity in the first place. It may have seemed a hassle at the time, but it was all worth it.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Day 29
Today I want to talk about how grateful I am to have a patriarchal blessing. I got mine kind of a while ago; it was the absolute perfect time for me to get my blessing. My patriarchal blessing has helped me so much throughout my life, even though I'm not even that old haha...especially in high school. It gives me hope for the future and the present. Each time I read through it, something different sticks out to me that I may not have noticed or interpreted in the same way before.
When I first got my blessing I was still a young teenager and I had little desire whatsoever to go on a mission. I couldn't imagine leaving my family for that long and going to an unknown place. Also, my mom would joke with me and say that I would go to Ethiopia or another third world country. I was actually really terrified by that thought at the time. So, when I got my blessing and it said that one day I would be blessed to preach the gospel to those who are awaiting the Lord's message, I got really nervous. I would try to justify things by telling myself that it would be when I'm old and can go with my husband or that I would share the gospel with my friends, but for some reason I knew that it wasn't the case. For the longest time I was really scared and unsure because I didn't want to go on a mission. However, as I went through high school, things started to change. First off, my testimony grew exponentially. Second, my cousin Tricia decided to go on a mission. While she was on her mission I would read the emails she sent back and see the joy that she found while sharing the gospel. It made me feel a burning desire in my heart to do the same. I'm not quite sure of the exact moment when everything clicked into place, but I finally knew that a mission was the right thing for me to do.
Last night I was reading my patriarchal blessing and I came across that same phrase about serving a mission that I have read so many times. I'm not sure why, but this time I started to cry. This is embarrassing but I'm even crying right now thinking about it. I felt the spirit so strongly as I read that phrase once again. A mission has become such an important goal for me, and I know with every part of me that it is the right thing to do. It may not be right for everyone, but for me at this time in my life it is the absolute best thing. It's just so interesting to think of the change that happened to me in 6 short years. I can't believe that I once had no desire to serve a mission. I'm so grateful that the opportunity has come though, and that I can leave right when I turn 19. It is such a blessing. I cannot wait to preach the gospel to the people who I serve, wherever I go.
Today I was reading in Mosiah 28. Verse 3 really stuck out to me. It tells us of the reasons why the sons of Mosiah went to serve missions. I know that I do have the desire to bring people to salvation, but my goal is to feel it with the same magnitude that the sons of Mosiah did. "Now they were desirous that salvation should be declared to every creature, for they could not abear that any human bsoul should cperish; yea, even the very thoughts that any soul should endure dendless torment did cause them to quake and etremble" (Mosiah 28:3).
I love this gospel so much! I'm so grateful for my patriarchal blessing and the hope and guidance that it brings into my life. I'm also grateful to one day be able to serve a mission.
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| This movie is so awesome! It's about sister missionaries in Austria. |
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Day 28
In high school I was blessed with an amazing group of friends. I never really appreciated it until now, but my friends are the absolute best. I am so grateful that I was able to spend much of my high school career amongst them. Now, you're probably wondering WHY this came to mind. Well, on Thursday I talked on the phone with a high school friend for a long time. I haven't talked to her in a while and it felt so great to catch up! Later that night another friend called me! It was crazy, but I loved hearing from them.
Anyway, I am so grateful for them because throughout high school they never pressured me into doing things that were bad and never teased me because I had different standards. None of them are LDS but my friends are really great people, who hold high standards too. I don't know how I found such an incredible group, but I did. High school would've been a lot different without them. They made my days so much brighter and the years worth remembering. (That sounds so cliche but it doesn't matter because it's true!) I find it really hard to express how wonderful they all are, but I just wanted to express my gratitude for them. :)
Anyway, I am so grateful for them because throughout high school they never pressured me into doing things that were bad and never teased me because I had different standards. None of them are LDS but my friends are really great people, who hold high standards too. I don't know how I found such an incredible group, but I did. High school would've been a lot different without them. They made my days so much brighter and the years worth remembering. (That sounds so cliche but it doesn't matter because it's true!) I find it really hard to express how wonderful they all are, but I just wanted to express my gratitude for them. :)
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| our yearbook collage! |
Day 27
Sooooo...once again I've stayed up late and haven't started my blog entry until after midnight, but I think I'd still consider this an official "Day 27" post :)
It's never easy to be away from home, and I've never had to make many decisions for myself until I came to college. When I was living under my parents roof there were many rules that I had to follow and most of my decisions were made with their assistance. Now that I'm in college I'm independent and I am forced to make my own decisions; whether or not I make the right choice is up to me. Sometimes I forget that and I call my parents for little decisions that I could be making on my own. Anyway, I think that college has been a great experience for me in being able to make my own choices and personally handle the consequences of my actions.
Making choices would be much harder though if I hadn't been raised by such amazing parents. I know that I've shared my love and gratitude for them before, but this time it's in a different way. My parents, though sometimes really strict, have given me all the right tools to be able to handle myself as an independent person. I can't thank them enough for that. Now, when tempting situations come along I feel like I can make the decisions that best fit my interests. They've taught me how to balance my life with many great things while keeping up with school and church at the same time. Who knows where I'd be without them?!?!
I love you Mommy and Daddy!
It's never easy to be away from home, and I've never had to make many decisions for myself until I came to college. When I was living under my parents roof there were many rules that I had to follow and most of my decisions were made with their assistance. Now that I'm in college I'm independent and I am forced to make my own decisions; whether or not I make the right choice is up to me. Sometimes I forget that and I call my parents for little decisions that I could be making on my own. Anyway, I think that college has been a great experience for me in being able to make my own choices and personally handle the consequences of my actions.
Making choices would be much harder though if I hadn't been raised by such amazing parents. I know that I've shared my love and gratitude for them before, but this time it's in a different way. My parents, though sometimes really strict, have given me all the right tools to be able to handle myself as an independent person. I can't thank them enough for that. Now, when tempting situations come along I feel like I can make the decisions that best fit my interests. They've taught me how to balance my life with many great things while keeping up with school and church at the same time. Who knows where I'd be without them?!?!
I love you Mommy and Daddy!
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Day 26
So it's 12:02 am right now, but I'm still going to consider this as an on-time post! (Haven't slept yet! haha)
Today I wanted to talk about how amazing it is to be at a university like BYU. At about 9 o'clock tonight we had a Relief Society service project downstairs in the basement. Our Relief Society consists of all the girls on our floor/wing. I was sitting with my friend Mariah when she asked me if I wanted to do family history along with her. I've been starting to work on family history, and I thought it was so timely. Then Mariah started to bear her testimony of the importance of family history work and she shared a story from the old testament. I'm not exactly sure where it is found or if I'm even telling it correctly, but it is about Elisha and his servant who were the only two around when a huge army was coming towards them. The servant was scared, but Elisha's eyes were open and he could see all the angels surrounding them that were there to protect them. Just like those angels, our ancestors are always surrounding us. Mariah has such a wonderful testimony of the gospel and especially family history work. :) The thing I love most about BYU is that you are surrounded with people who share the same beliefs as you. I'm not saying it's bad to be around people without the same beliefs because that is perfectly awesome too! It's just that it is so awesome to be able to talk so freely about gospel topics amongst my own peers. I never had that back home and now it happens all the time! I absolutely love it.
Today I wanted to talk about how amazing it is to be at a university like BYU. At about 9 o'clock tonight we had a Relief Society service project downstairs in the basement. Our Relief Society consists of all the girls on our floor/wing. I was sitting with my friend Mariah when she asked me if I wanted to do family history along with her. I've been starting to work on family history, and I thought it was so timely. Then Mariah started to bear her testimony of the importance of family history work and she shared a story from the old testament. I'm not exactly sure where it is found or if I'm even telling it correctly, but it is about Elisha and his servant who were the only two around when a huge army was coming towards them. The servant was scared, but Elisha's eyes were open and he could see all the angels surrounding them that were there to protect them. Just like those angels, our ancestors are always surrounding us. Mariah has such a wonderful testimony of the gospel and especially family history work. :) The thing I love most about BYU is that you are surrounded with people who share the same beliefs as you. I'm not saying it's bad to be around people without the same beliefs because that is perfectly awesome too! It's just that it is so awesome to be able to talk so freely about gospel topics amongst my own peers. I never had that back home and now it happens all the time! I absolutely love it.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Day 25
Today I had a class period that changed my life! It was Book of Mormon class. We had a "silent" class period where our teacher didn't say anything. At first I was kind of confused, but it was the best class period ever and has made me view the Savior in an extremely different light. Before this class I thought I had an understanding of the Savior and his atonement, but now I see it in an even more personal way. My testimony has been strengthened in so many ways.
So there are two things that I want to share that I am grateful for today. First is that I am grateful to be studying at a university where I am taught about the principles of the gospel in a classroom setting. My understanding of the Book of Mormon has been expanded in ways I never thought possible. Second, I am grateful for everything the Savior has done for me.
In class we were talking (actually we weren't talking haha) about Mosiah 14-16, which about Abinidi going before King Noah and testifying of the Savior. I want to finish this post and share what I wrote in my journal after having gone through the videos, verses, and powerpoint slides during class:
I am so grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ. I don't know where I'd be without him. I know that he lives and he knows me. He knows my name, my circumstance, my insecurities, and the deepest desires of my heart. He has felt my pains and sorrows of every kind, both physical and emotional. There is no one in the whole world that knows me better than the Savior. And what's most amazing about it is that he knows everyone else (who has ever lived and will live on this earth) in the exact same way he knows me.
So there are two things that I want to share that I am grateful for today. First is that I am grateful to be studying at a university where I am taught about the principles of the gospel in a classroom setting. My understanding of the Book of Mormon has been expanded in ways I never thought possible. Second, I am grateful for everything the Savior has done for me.
In class we were talking (actually we weren't talking haha) about Mosiah 14-16, which about Abinidi going before King Noah and testifying of the Savior. I want to finish this post and share what I wrote in my journal after having gone through the videos, verses, and powerpoint slides during class:
I am so grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ. I don't know where I'd be without him. I know that he lives and he knows me. He knows my name, my circumstance, my insecurities, and the deepest desires of my heart. He has felt my pains and sorrows of every kind, both physical and emotional. There is no one in the whole world that knows me better than the Savior. And what's most amazing about it is that he knows everyone else (who has ever lived and will live on this earth) in the exact same way he knows me.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Day 24
Today I got to talk to my sister-in-law on the phone for a little while. She's so aweosme! I'm not sure how it happened, but I am so blessed to have such a wonderful sister-in-law. I only have one older brother, so my whole life I've wanted a sister. I couldn't have asked for a better sister than Rose! She is absolutely amazing. My brother got married when I was going to go into the 6th grade, so they've been married for several years now. I love Rose sooo much, and I feel like I can tell her anything. There are times when I feel like she is the only one that can understand. Maybe because she's closest to my age? Or it is because she is so understanding and has the kindest heart. (I'm not sure how my brother was lucky enough to find someone like her! Haha.) Rose is such a wonderful example to me of someone who is a loving mother and a humble follower of Christ. I hope that I can one day become at least a little like her. I am grateful that Heavenly Father blessed our family with a truly incredible person.
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| Rose! |
Monday, October 29, 2012
Day 23
A couple nights ago there was a tsunami warning in Hawaii because of the earthquake in Canada. I couldn't believe that it was happening and that I wouldn't be able to be there with my family and friends. Fortunately, the tsunami didn't actually happen and everything was fine back home. I know that the Lord blessed all the people in Hawaii. It is so comforting to know that all the people I know at home are still safe. I don't know what I would've done if the tsunami had really hit Hawaii. I am so grateful that the Lord blessed our islands and preserved them from damage.
Right now there's a huge storm hitting the east coast. I hope that everyone I know over there is safe and protected. I know the Lord will preserve all those who have faith in him. I am also so grateful for the knowledge that as long as we keep the commandments and endure we don't need to be afraid of all the things of the world and the calamities that are happening.
Right now there's a huge storm hitting the east coast. I hope that everyone I know over there is safe and protected. I know the Lord will preserve all those who have faith in him. I am also so grateful for the knowledge that as long as we keep the commandments and endure we don't need to be afraid of all the things of the world and the calamities that are happening.
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| The devastating tsunami that hit the Big Island in 1960 |
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Day 22
Today the sister missionaries (at Temple Square) and I were supposed to conference call and teach a lesson to my friend who is in Oregon. It's too bad, but my friend didn't pick up her phone. Both the sisters and I have been preparing all week for this one day. It was heartbreaking when she didn't answer because we had such a great message to share and I know that it would've impacted her life greatly, but I guess it just wasn't meant to happen today at this time. After I hung up with the sister missionaries, I tried to think of what good came from this experience...and I realized that I learned so much from this. I've had a taste of what it will be like to go on a mission, I've learned more about the gospel myself, and I've learned about all the prayer and work that is put into a single lesson. The lesson that was to be taught was about God's Plan. We were going to talk about what our purpose is in life and the importance of knowing who we are. The sisters had asked me to study the lesson out with them and as I studied I found so many amazing talks and videos and quotes and scriptures. I was so excited to share everything! That's why I was so bummed when my friend didn't answer. What is great about this though is that I have learned so much more about my own worth. I always thought that I've had a sense of my purpose and worth, but it wasn't until studying this lesson that I really learned how important I am and how important each and every person on this earth is. I know that even though God has so many children, he knows each of us. Also, as a woman, I have a divine role and play a crucial part in his eternal plan. I hope that I can live up to all the expectations the Lord has for me. Knowing that I am a child of God, that I have a purpose, and that I am of worth helps me to know that I will never be alone. I will always have someone to turn to with any problem, insecurity, or other issue in my life. I want to finish this post with a quote by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf:
"Though it may seem you are alone, angels attend you. Though you may feel that no one can understand the depth of your despair, our Savior, Jesus Christ, understands. He suffered more than we can possibly imagine, and He did it for us. He did it for you. You are not alone."
"Though it may seem you are alone, angels attend you. Though you may feel that no one can understand the depth of your despair, our Savior, Jesus Christ, understands. He suffered more than we can possibly imagine, and He did it for us. He did it for you. You are not alone."
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| This is my cousin when she serving a mission at Temple Square |
Day 21
So...silly me. Yesterday, I forgot to post...AGAIN! :( Oh well! I'll post twice today.
Yesterday our ward had the opportunity to go to Temple Square and the Haunted Village. While my roommate was in line to buy dinner at City Creek Mall, I thought I saw someone that looked like my grandpa. I kept looking and realized that IT WAS MY GRANDPA! I was so excited :) Grandpa is visiting my aunty who lives in Salt Lake City. We went to dinner last week, but I haven't seen him since. It was so nice to see him, my aunty, and my cousin. I could not believe it. What are the odds that we would be in the exact same place at the exact same time?! I have no clue, but I am so grateful that it happened because I got to see my family. (I'm pretty sure the Lord had a hand in it as well ;)
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| My grandpa's not a huge fan of taking pictures, but we caught him! |
Friday, October 26, 2012
Day 20
Today was a great day. I don't want to discriminate and just share one thing I'm grateful for today, but instead I want to share how I am grateful for everything that happened today (so far...it's only 12 haha). The beginning of the week was so stressful and I am so happy to have such a successful day. So I'll be sharing with you my day in a nutshell.
This morning I woke up at 5:40 and went swimming at the pool. I try to go swimming everyday, but this week has been really hard because of midterms and papers, so today was the first day in the whole week that I got to swim. It felt so good to just jump in the water and do something that I think is fun. It was hard work, but I loved it! After swimming I had time to read my scriptures (which basically set a good tone for my whole day). After that I had even more time to clean up my desk area and plan my entire calendar for next month. By that time it was about 9 am. So, I decided to go to go and mail out thank you letters that I had written last night. With even more extra time before my 10 o'clock class, I went to the bookstore and bought Les Miserables. I heard that it's a really good book/musical/soontobemovie, so I want to read it. :) Classes were great. In Japanese literature we got back our midterms and I was excited to find out that I did well! It is truly a miracle, with all the things that have happened this week, that I was able to get a good grade.
Everything is amazing :)
This morning I woke up at 5:40 and went swimming at the pool. I try to go swimming everyday, but this week has been really hard because of midterms and papers, so today was the first day in the whole week that I got to swim. It felt so good to just jump in the water and do something that I think is fun. It was hard work, but I loved it! After swimming I had time to read my scriptures (which basically set a good tone for my whole day). After that I had even more time to clean up my desk area and plan my entire calendar for next month. By that time it was about 9 am. So, I decided to go to go and mail out thank you letters that I had written last night. With even more extra time before my 10 o'clock class, I went to the bookstore and bought Les Miserables. I heard that it's a really good book/musical/soontobemovie, so I want to read it. :) Classes were great. In Japanese literature we got back our midterms and I was excited to find out that I did well! It is truly a miracle, with all the things that have happened this week, that I was able to get a good grade.
Everything is amazing :)
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| Gotta love swimming! haha |
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Day 19
Today I want to write two things I'm grateful for!
First: This morning it SNOWED! I'm not even joking, it was really snowing!!!!!!!!!! Haha, there were four (me and 3 California girls) of us that were outside playing in it and taking pictures and just having fun. This isn't my first time seeing snow, but it is my first time being around during the first snowfall of the year! The snow made my day so much better. I was happier and so excited about everything. (Plus, winter clothes are so cute!)
Second: Today I had some extra time so I decided to go on Family Search and look up names from my grandpa's family. What I didn't know until today is that my grandpa's dad died when my grandpa was very young. My Papa is such an amazing man. Right now he's suffering from many health issues, but he has always been an amazing example to me. He is such a humble and loving man. He is one of the most selfless people I know. When my older brother, Richie, was younger he would always take care of him (me too, but that's beside the point). So when my parents moved to Utah for my dad's medical residency, Papa came up with them and took care of my brother. He left so much behind to help out my parents and my brother. I haven't asked Papa too much about his past, but now I wish I did. He can't talk too well now, so I'll have to do a lot of research on my own now. (But I'm willing...family history is so awesome!) My Papa has been through many hardships, but he endured and turned out to be a wonderful man. :)
First: This morning it SNOWED! I'm not even joking, it was really snowing!!!!!!!!!! Haha, there were four (me and 3 California girls) of us that were outside playing in it and taking pictures and just having fun. This isn't my first time seeing snow, but it is my first time being around during the first snowfall of the year! The snow made my day so much better. I was happier and so excited about everything. (Plus, winter clothes are so cute!)
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| Snow! |
Second: Today I had some extra time so I decided to go on Family Search and look up names from my grandpa's family. What I didn't know until today is that my grandpa's dad died when my grandpa was very young. My Papa is such an amazing man. Right now he's suffering from many health issues, but he has always been an amazing example to me. He is such a humble and loving man. He is one of the most selfless people I know. When my older brother, Richie, was younger he would always take care of him (me too, but that's beside the point). So when my parents moved to Utah for my dad's medical residency, Papa came up with them and took care of my brother. He left so much behind to help out my parents and my brother. I haven't asked Papa too much about his past, but now I wish I did. He can't talk too well now, so I'll have to do a lot of research on my own now. (But I'm willing...family history is so awesome!) My Papa has been through many hardships, but he endured and turned out to be a wonderful man. :)
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| Me and Papa (2011) |
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